The two companies had announced a “development stage system optimized for computer gameplay on large high-definition television monitors” — a device called the Piston that can run Steam-based games on your TV. Xi3 even said it received an investment from Valve.

“We reaffirm the fact that we received an investment from Valve Corporation (as we previously disclosed during the 2013 International CES trade show), and we did so with Valve’s written permission,” said Jason Sullivan, CEO of Xi3, in the statement. “Second, we were asked to build a product specifically for Valve, and both companies showcased this product – the Piston console – in their respective booths at CES 2013.”

“Then, during a meeting with Valve at CES, Gabe Newell personally asked me that we not disclose additional information about our relationship with Valve. We have honored that request and will continue to do so.”

The statement seems to make it clear that while Xi3 and Valve may not be currently working on anything together, there’s certainly still a possibility for that.

Sullivan also wanted to reaffirm that the Piston is not the “official Steam Box,” as some have coined it. Keep in mind that Valve is developing its own “Steam Box,” but prototypes won’t be ready for another three-to-four months.

Sullivan went on to say how the Piston may be something better than a “Steam Box.”

“It’s also important to note that the Piston Console will allow gamers to access Steam regardless of what our relationship is or isn’t with Valve,” he said. “Additionally, Piston will also support a raft of other Internet-based gaming and entertainment platforms, which is more than what Valve apparently has planned for its official Steam Box.”

“In closing, what Valve does or doesn’t do with its Steam Box will be up to them,” he concluded. “So Gabe, it’s up to you. The ball is in your court.”

Xi3 began taking pre-orders for the Piston on Monday, which makes this recent back-and-forth all the more interesting.

Taylor Soper is a GeekWire staff reporter who covers a wide variety of tech assignments, including emerging startups in Seattle and Portland, the sharing economy and the intersection of technology and sports. Follow him @taylor_soper and email taylor@geekwire.com.

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